Phoebe's Light

Nantucket Legacy #1

by Suzanne Woods Fisher

After marrying a boat captain and embarking on a seafaring life, Phoebe Starbuck discovers that shipboard realities are more challenging than anticipated and becomes engrossed in the diary of her great-grandmother and her long-kept secrets.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Romance, Fiction, Amish, Historical Romance

449 pages, Library Binding

First published February 1, 2018

About the author

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling, award winning author of fiction and non-fiction books about the Old Order Amish for Revell Books, host of the radio-show-turned-blog Amish Wisdom, a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazine.

Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, who was raised Plain. A theme in her books (her life!) is that you don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate the principles of simple living.

Suzanne lives in California with her family and raises puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To her way of thinking, you just can't life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth.

Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting book. The author really knows how to captivate and keep her audience reading.
The description of the scenery is mesmerizing and one feels as if they are there with the characters. I can smell the salt in the air from the ocean,hear the shouts from the crew and feel Phoebe's pain as she realizes the man she has married is not who she thinks he is. The book is a time slip as it has two time periods to it, 1661 and 1767. 1661 is Great Mary's life which Phoebe reads about in an old journal her father gives her and 1767 is Phoebe's life. Captain Phineas Foulger is quite the respected man and when he starts to call on Phoebe she is quite pleased. After their marriage she comes to understand her father's warning about the man is true. He is not the man he portrayed himself to be.
I learned some interesting historical facts which is one reason I find historical books so fascinating to read. I learned about a greasy voyage and what a mortgage button is.
This book is about the the Quakers living on Nantucket Island and their main source of income is whaling.
The author takes you on quite the seafaring voyage in this the fist book in the Nantucket Legacy series. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Pub Date 06 Feb 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for a review copy. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

So rich in historical detail! I loved learning about an era and location in history that I knew pretty much nothing about, and now I'm fascinated. I'm not usually a fan of a dual time-line story, but the author balanced it perfectly, with Phoebe and Matthew's perspectives told in third person POV, and the journal entries of her great-grandmother Mary in first person. The majority of the book is about Phoebe and her growth through harsh trials, which is enhanced by the parallels of Mary's growth in the well-placed excerpts. The pace of the book was rather slow at first, but I've found that with this author's beautiful writing I appreciate the time she takes to build the setting and develop the characters so that when the pace quickens and the plot climaxes, I'm completely enthralled and invested in the outcome. Hard lessons are learned, secrets are revealed, yet Phoebe's stalwart faith supports her and encourages those around her when they need it most. I'm loving this new series by one of my favorite authors and am looking forward to more!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, let me ask – “Why couldn’t I have been assigned this book instead of Moby Dick in high school?!?” I mean, they both deal with whaling ships. But Phoebe’s Light is much more entertaining. I think it would be a fair substitute... just sayin lol.

In all seriousness, the history geek in me is so intrigued by the overarching story told in Fisher’s new Nantucket Legacy series. While each book focuses on a ‘modern-day’ (at least so far as 1767 is more modern than 1660) storyline, it also zeroes in on Mary Coffin – a real historical figure who had tremendous impact on a young Nantucket. Through Mary’s author-imagined journal entries (Fisher includes an author’s note at the end that details what is fact and what is fiction), we get more insight into this fascinating historical figure.

As far as the 1767 thread of the story, Phoebe is the kind of heroine you like a lot but still want to shake for part of the book – yet you also end up being really proud of her by the end. There’s a bit of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ flavor to Phoebe’s story, too. Her father is an eccentric whim-chaser who always has a new (quirky) venture brewing, to their financial detriment. There’s a Gastonish character – a beast disguised as a prince – and a prince-type character disguised as somewhat of a beast. The allusion to this classic fairy tale doesn’t dominate the tale – and may not have even been intended by the author – but especially as the story begins the similarities come to mind.

As Phoebe’s reading of Great Mary’s diary progresses, we begin to see more intersection with the 1767 thread (Phoebe’s thread), as surnames merge between the two. How it all fits together becomes part of the story’s intrigue in both timelines, and there’s more than one mystery to solve as we sail along. While some aspects of the story are fairly predictable, I wasn’t sure, ultimately, how either thread would play out – and there were some bumpy moments when I feared (and discovered) the worst!

Bottom Line: Phoebe’s Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher detours from her typical Amish genre to spotlight Quaker history and that of Nantucket. Both Mary Coffin and Phoebe Starbuck, though not without their flaws, are admirable heroines and the men they truly love are the best of heroes. The history here is as richly atmospheric as the setting, and while the thees and thous take a bit of tedious navigating this story is an enjoyable read with the promise of more fascinating stories to come!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Amanda Tero · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was my first time to read Suzanne Woods Fisher. The era and setting intrigued me: whale-hunters in 1776? Definite yes! In ways, this book made me think of Elizabeth George Speare’s “Witch of Blackbird Pond”—likely because it hinted a lot about the superstitions and injustices done toward the Quakers in the 1600’s.

While most of the story was written from Phoebe’s perspective in 1776, she received her great-grandmother’s journal from 1658 and beyond. At the closure of each chapter, a portion of Mary’s journal was shared. I found her story to be quite intriguing.

The mystery in these pages was also interesting. I like a good mystery, and though at times you didn’t realize there was actually a mystery abroad in the community, as the pieces began falling together, I enjoyed it!

I really tried my hardest to like this book. I’ll admit I was a bit turned off on the first page when the main character used “Drat!” in her thoughts. Not only did this phrase not emerge until the 1800’s, a strict Quaker lass would not have used such a strong euphemism (if it had been used in her time). But, I seriously tried to push that away and enjoy the book… but so many cliché phrases kept bringing me back to the 1900’s, and my history brain just has a hard time with that.

There were also a lot of unanswered questions, but I realize it could just be my over-curious mind. Questions such as: if great-grandmother Mary wasn’t Quaker (and was suspicious of them) and was persuaded by other Christians to be baptized (Anabaptist), then how is it that Phoebe is strict Quaker? When in the family line did that major switch happen?

I suppose if you really like romance stories, this might appeal to you. Most people know I’m not a huge romance fan, but I can tolerate a good bit of it. The part that was just “okay” for me was Mary’s journal, where she is in love with and pining after one man while keeping company with and nourishing a friendship with another (though it is resolved that she didn’t mean anything by the friendship, the whole “I want this man and I will get him, but I don’t know how” really bothered me). But what I really had a hard time with was this book’s love triangle. I don’t dislike a love triangle, but when it is between a married couple and a third person…yeah, no. Sorry. Once a person is married, they shouldn’t be pining after their first love. The married girl shouldn’t be falling in love again with her jilted childhood love—or realizing that she never stopped loving him—while she’s married and her husband is still alive.
*SPOILER*
There were two scenes in which the captain began undressing or started undressing Phoebe and talking of the marriage rights. A little too suggestive for my tastes. And back to the love triangle, wonderfully for Phoebe, the captain is killed, so now she can marry the man she loved since childhood. Oh, and also, the captain was already married to another woman and Phoebe is his second wife, which she discovers mid-book. I just have a problem with all of the above. I realize terrible situations happen in real life, but this is not the type of stuff I find pure and righteous for entertainment purposes.
*END OF SPOILER*

The spiritual side of this book was really confusing. Given that it’s Quakers and Anabaptists and an era in which they were at each others’ throats and stuck on rules rather than following God, I suppose it should make sense. But it was all very vague. “Follow the Light” and “the Light is within you.” There was a casual mention of Scripture, but it was more the “wisdom of Great Mary” that was followed rather than the wisdom of God’s Word.

Like I said, I did give this book an honest go. I was prepared to like it, and I did try to. But it just wasn’t really for me.

*I received this book from Celebrate Lit and happily provided my honest review*

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This read suffered because I knew more than Phoebe in the beginning of the story. As a reader I could sense the predictability for over 200 pages before things started happening that I did not see coming. The history and excellent writing kept me plodding along though. I haven't learned so much about Nantucket and it's "greasy voyages" since watching a family favorite of American Ride on channel BYU. I could see so much of what was written; and the scenery was really beautiful.

[Nicki Olsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

*My Thoughts*

Suzanne Woods Fischer is a popular in-home name for readers of Christian Fiction. She's written dozens of books, and she's very well known for her Amish Fiction. A beautiful storyteller, her books always bring to mind that of a grandmother telling stories to her grandchildren in the living room by the fireplace.

Her newest series is not an Amish series but follows a series of Quakers. And let me tell you, this series is going to be her best one yet if Pheobe's Light is any indication.

Skillfully written in stunning detail, Suzanne masterfully shares (in a timeslip, no less), the story of Great Mary through a journal. Phoebe is given the journal for her 18th birthday but has little interest. At the end of each chapter, Suzanne would insert a page or two of Mary's journal to impart wisdom and shed light on Quaker life in the 1600s. Rich with historical detail, I found myself entranced in both stories, and couldn't decide which I looked forward to more each time I picked this delight up.

Throughout the story, Pheobe learns the importance of family and that people and riches aren't always as they seem. Desperate to show Phoebe and the world he's changed, Matthew is an endearing character who I ached and rejoiced alongside throughout the story.



With beautiful detail, Suzanne makes you feel what her characters feel, smell what her characters smell, and see in your mind's eye both the beauty of Nantucket and the horrors her characters may face. A captivating story, Phoebe's Light is not one to be missed.





_______________________________________________________


*My Rating*


I give Phoebe's Light...








5 stars!


*I received this book from the publisher, but was in no way required to give a positive review.

[Tiffany Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

**FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW.**

Phoebe Starbuck has always adjusted her sails based on the whims of her father. But, this time she’s going to do what she wants, no matter what he or anyone else has to say about it. She’s going to marry Captain Phineas Foulger, and has already convinced him to take her along on his next whaling excursion. She takes along with her the old sheepskin journal of her great-grandmother, “Great Mary”, which the Captain has shown an unusual amount of interest in. And, despite how much she feels she doesn’t need a minder, her father has talked cooper Matthew Mitchell to go along and keep an eye out for her. It doesn’t take long for Phoebe to realize that life at sea is just as difficult as life on land, if not even harder. She’s homesick, dealing with intense seasickness, and lonely being surrounded by a crew that despises her and is convinced that having a woman aboard is a bad omen. In her loneliness, she turns to her great-grandmother’s journal and learns of a secret that “Great Mary” left behind that carries repercussions for everyone aboard ship, especially her husband, the Captain, and her shadow, the Cooper. What follows changes the coarse of each of their lives forever.

This is the first book in Suzanne Woods Fisher’s Nantucket Legacy Series and it’s an amazing beginning. The story had me captivated from the very beginning and is full of beautiful imagery and descriptions of the island that were clear enough for me to almost visualize it myself. It alternates between Phoebe’s perspective and her great-grandmother’s through the use of her journal and that really added to the story . You can really tell how much research the author did into the period and into the whaling industry of the day. She also did an amazing job with the characters. I really enjoyed reading Phoebe’s story and am looking forward to seeing what is in store for Phoebe, her father, Matthew, and the rest of the beloved people on her island.

[Carole Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/2BDXQAq

Suzanne Woods Fisher is an exquisite storyteller, and with Phoebe’s Light, she continues to hone her skill as a writer of historical fiction. Even when writing Amish fiction, I’ve always said that her stories had a much broader appeal than any niche audience, and that is certainly true here. Phoebe’s Light is rich in characterization, historical detail, and plot twists, a story that I didn’t want to put down for a minute. I won’t say that this is the best of Fisher’s books, because I tend to think that about whichever one I’m reading at the time, but Phoebe’s Light is certainly among my favorites.

I’ve always been drawn to New England and actually visited this story’s island setting twice, Nantucket off the Cape Cod coast. Everything about Nantucket was vividly conveyed – the land, inhabitants, religion, and industry. Between the whaling industry and Quaker faith, I learned a lot of fascinating history in an entertaining way.

Phoebe Starbuck was a well-drawn character that I loved, although I wanted to shake some sense into her for the first half of the book. Phoebe, a young woman “overly impressed by wealth, by luxury and lavishness,” and Captain Phineas Foulger, a man who “loved himself best of all” … there’s no way that marriage built upon deceit could last. The realistically-flawed Matthew Macy was a favorite, as was Captain Foulger’s cabin boy, Silo, who showed that the speaking isn’t the only way to communicate.

The dual timelines of Mary Coffin in 1658 and Phoebe in 1757 were skillfully written; I was equally invested in both stories and enjoyed following family lines. God’s faithfulness in spite of our shortcomings is reflected throughout, as is the contrast between a personal relationship with God versus religion.

I just can’t say enough good things about Phoebe’s Light. The whole Nantucket Legacy series promises to be excellent and I eagerly await the next story, Minding the Light.

Highly recommended.

I was provided a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

PHOEBE'S LIGHT is the first book in Ms. Fisher's newest series, this one about the Quakers. I'm a long time fan of her contemporary Amish, and have to admire the research she put into the historical Amish series she wrote, and this new historical venture, set on Nantucket and centered around whaling and Quakers is just as worthy of admiration.



Suzanne Woods Fisher is a stellar, award-winning author. Some would call her the Queen of Amish fiction (others would say it's someone else such as Beverly Lewis) but all will admit, Ms. Fisher is one of top. She's definitely one of my favorite go-to authors.



Phoebe is an eighteen year old innocent sweetheart, in love with a man probably double her age and one who thinks what she wants and does what she wants even though she doesn't take the time to think things through. She has a lot of growing up to do on the voyage through this book. I'm anxious to read more about her, her sea captain, and even her shadow the cooper. He won my heart.



I know that not all Amish readers read Quaker fiction, and not all historical readers read "Plain" fiction, but for those who will, don't miss this book. A good read. Definitely eye-opening about a sect I didn't know much about beyond elementary school history and a book or two.



I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.

[Chautona Havig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Characterization
It’s so easy to create villains who are “all bad” and heroines with token flaws. It takes a masterful storyteller to combine sympathetic characters with realistic flaws and virtues—on both ends. Fisher does it with both stories.

Oh, yes. This book weaves two stories together—one told in a family heirloom—a journal. And the other in the narrative. And through two completely different storytelling styles, she shows flawed and beautiful characters both. Phoebe is the protagonist every reader loves. She’s strong, but gentle. Her virtues are plenty and faults real. She learns and grows as the story emerges but not in some moralistic tale that makes you want to run.

The Captain, her father, her friends—every person in the book has a consistent character—even as that character grows and changes, those changes fit within the character itself.

Good characterization makes any story more enjoyable—more delightful.

Setting
One of the things I love most about Fisher’s writing is how skillfully she weaves description into the tale. You feel as if you’re there—can smell the salt and brine. You dread the whaling because you know you’ll be glad you’re not on that ship—really smelling it.

Yet she never overloads the narrative. Every single gets placed exactly in the right spot to ensure you experience the book as if you stood beside those characters and lived their lives with them. But Fisher NEVER smothers you with that description.

Surprise
Yes, she surprised me. Few authors do, and no, she didn’t surprise me on everything, but that she surprised me at all was a delight. There was one small bit in the book—pivotal but small—that I became so wrapped up in the story and missed it.

Brilliant.

Do I have any complaints?
Two.

First, one element regarding Phoebe’s future I found rather conveniently wrapped up. Look, I know why she did it, and I’ll be honest. I probably would have been annoyed had she not. How’s that for unfair?

Still, it’s true. Sometimes the most satisfying ending is also a bit too convenient to be realistic. I chose to decide that I’d take satisfying, though. Because realistic would have just been way too disappointing.

And second, I am not looking forward to the wait for the next in the series. Sigh. I just hope I have an opportunity to receive another review copy, but if I don't, I'll be buying it. No doubt about it.

[Joleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always enjoyed Suzanne Woods Fisher's writing. She writes fascinating history where I’m not only completely engaged, but I learn so much.

Two timelines:
1650s-60s Mary Coffin, also called Great Mary, daughter of one of the first proprietors of Nantucket

1767 Phoebe Starbuck, Great granddaughter of Mary Coffin

This book was the beginning of the Quaker community on Nantucket in the 1600s. Mary Coffin's family sought a place to live where there was less religious suppression, so lead by Thomas Macy a number of Quaker families relocated to Nantucket where for generations they thrived, greatly as a whaling town.

This story is of the birthday present Phoebe Starbuck received: a journal written by the famous Mary Coffin Starbuck. The 1767 timeline story was interspersed with journal entries by Phoebe's great grandmother. The two women had similar experiences and loves. Both are great storylines!

I found it all so fascinating. Watching Phoebe begin as a naive girl desperately "in love" with a much older whaling captain, to a wise, enterprising young woman was captivating.

Even though it deals with the Quaker faith, which I believe has theological flaws, it is nonetheless a part of history and can be appreciated. Just like books on Shakers. Although I think of that faith as a cult, the people and stories are intriguing.

Good book and I intend to find and read the next in the series.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Phoebe’s Light” by Suzanne Woods Fisher is a unique story set on Nantucket Island during the 1600s and 1700s when whaling was prevalent. I used to read a lot of books about the Amish, Quakers and Mennonites. It has been awhile now since I’ve picked one up and I was especially excited that this book is about Quakers since I don’t know as much about them.

Ms. Fisher weaves history and detail deftly into her story. I love the setting of Nantucket, especially since I have visited there before. I learned a lot about whaling, ships, Quakers and Nantucket during this time period. The author obviously put a lot of research into her book. It is fascinating to learn about the Quakers and their faith, and what sets them apart. It is helpful that Ms. Fisher includes terms and a character list in the beginning of the book.

I really enjoy the way Ms. Fisher writes the characters in this story; especially Phoebe, Matthew and Great Mary. All three of them have wonderful character arcs, and their characters undergo transformations throughout the book. At the beginning of the story, I did not like Phoebe and thought the choices she made were unwise. By the end, the author made me admire the way Phoebe handles certain situations and she really becomes a stronger and much more likeable person. I loved reading the journal entries of Great Mary, and laughed at how she sometimes crosses out her real feelings (which you could still read).

“Phoebe’s Light” is an inspiring and original story that will hopefully help us each examine our faith. Ms. Fisher explores what it means to truly be a Christian and the difference between religion and true Christianity.

Content: I would give this book somewhere between a PG and PG-13 rating for some content. Examples: Some graphic descriptions of violence against Quakers and sailors; indicates a man is a drunkard and fights a lot; a man smokes tobacco; reference to the wedding bed; says a man curses, but the actual curses are not written; a woman mentions a demon is the cause of her low spirits and there is thought that a demon possesses a baby; a short scene where a man tries to force his wife to fulfill her marital duty, but they are interrupted; a woman uses opium to escape, becomes addicted and goes through withdrawal.

Rating: I give this book 4 stars.

Genre: Christian fiction; Historical; Romance.

I want to thank Suzanne Woods Fisher, Revell and Celebrate Lit for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

[Victoria Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
This book was highly insightful, and again, not what I expected. The last time I read a book by Ms. Fisher, I was pleasantly surprised by the actual story and the depth therein.
This was the same way. The story was a bit slow in the beginning, picking up the pace as it went on. I loved the journal entries interspersed at the end of each chapter and the insight that it was seeing two different eras of Nantucket living.
I learned a lot about that time in history, but more importantly, I learned a lot about the Quaker community and how it works. The religion has always been something I was curious about, and I was delighted to find that it holds a lot of beliefs similar to my own.
The characters were not my favorite, mostly because they were so unlike me as to be relatable, but they were still very real. Personally, my favorite was Matthew and I did find some things in common with Phoebe; though I would say I am most similar to Mary Coffin. I enjoyed her part of the story very much as I saw myself in some of her younger days. Phoebe was petulant, thought she knew best, and went ahead and did it, even when those around her expressed their concern with the plan.
Her marriage was something that made me angrier than anything because we as the reader could tell that Captain Foulger was a scoundrel. I didn’t realize how much of one however which gave us a quite a bit of suspense throughout the book.
Definitely an interesting tale that was historically accurate about a time in history that not many people write about. That made this story unique and I think all the more interesting.
I docked a star for content. There was some mention of “the marriage bed” and the obligations of a wife. Unfaithful marriage, a mention of polygamic practices. Some violence in the way of descriptions of Quakers tortured or imprisoned for their faith as well as punishments aboard ship such as floggings and a few hand to hand fights. Also mentions of how a man died after a blow to the head.
All of that being said, I do think this was an interesting and page-turning read and after the cliff hanger they left us on at the end of the preview chapter for book 2, I will definitely be interested in reading the next installment of this book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I expected to like this book but I didn’t expect to love it (which I did). This story focuses on the island of Nantucket, taking place in two time periods. The reader gets a glimpse into Mary Coffin’s life, who was the daughter of one of the original settlers on Nantucket. The story also follows Phoebe Starbuck, Mary’s great granddaughter, a Quaker who lives on Nantucket.

I loved learning about the rift between the Puritans and the Quakers as well as the origins of Nantucket and how it was settled. There is also a lot of talk of the whaling industry, which was extremely interesting. The story is very atmospheric…there are many scenes on a ship and I could almost feel the waves and smell the salty air.

The author is a very gifted writer…I flew through the story and never felt that it dragged. I loved the characters, although there were a few times I wished that one of them would wise up. I also liked that this story was light on the romance…there is a bit of romance but it’s never the main focus of the story. (I’m not a romance reader).

The story was open ended and I’m eagerly awaiting the next release in the series! This is one of my favorite books of the year so far, highly recommended!

My Rating: 5 stars

I received this book from Baker Publishing Group to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe’s Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher is the first book in the Nantucket Legacy series. On September 8, 1767 on Nantucket Island, Phoebe Starbuck, a Quaker, turns eighteen. Her father, Barnabas Starbuck presents her with Great Mary’s journal (her great grandmother). It passes from one generation to the next to the one who would benefit most from Great Mary’s wisdom (it is a shame that Barnabas never read it). Phoebe is excited to see that Phineas Foulger, captain of the Fortuna, has returned to the island. Phoebe fancies herself in love with the older widower and hopes to finally capture his attention. After a short time, Phineas and Phoebe are wed and set sail on the Fortuna. Phoebe has longed for adventure her whole life, but she soon discovers that life at sea does not suit her (she suffers from mal de mer). She spends her days in her quarters with the comfort of Great Mary’s journal. Matthew Macy and Phoebe were once betrothed to one another until Matthew turned away from God. Matthew, though, has never stopped caring for her. When Barnabas asks him to join the crew of the Fortuna to keep an eye on Phoebe, Matthew agrees. Phoebe is in for a life altering journey, and she will soon need the wisdom in Great Mary’s journal and help from Matthew to aid those she loves.

Phoebe’s Light is a captivating historical novel. It was fascinating to go back to this time period and read about life on Nantucket Island. The author did a wonderful job at integrating the diary entries into the book. I was afraid the entries would pull me out of the story, but it did just the opposite. I kept wanting to know what else was in the diary and what would happen next to Phoebe. Phoebe’s Light well-written and it has a nice steady pace with vivid descriptions of the island, people, the ships, whales and etc. I appreciate authors whose words allow me to picture the scenes in my head as I read (just the right amount of detail). The transitions were smooth between chapters and the diary entries. I could tell that the author did her research for this novel especially on Mary Coffin Starbuck and the whaling industry. She captured the speech of the Quakers and the people of this era (there is a glossary). The story contains incredible characters that are well-developed and realistic. There are characters readers will love and others that you will dislike intensely (and hope that they get what they deserve). I like that Ms. Fisher did the book on Quakers. There are few fiction books that incorporate this religious sect and it was interesting to learn more about their history (how they came to America and the persecution they suffered). The mystery element added another level to this rich story. There is a lovely ending that will have you anxiously awaiting Minding the Light (second book in Nantucket Legacy series).

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first novel in Fisher's new debut series Nantucket Legacy. It contains a dual timeline that is interwoven quite well: Phoebe's story from the 1700's and her great grandmother, Great Mary's, from the 1600's. Phoebe is a Quaker and descended from one of the original families who settled Nantucket Island in order to escape from the persecution that we receiving from the Puritans (Now that's a twist since the Puritans left England due to their religious persecution!). I loved the glossary at the beginning that explained the Quaker terms that Fisher included as many of them were definitely not part of my vocabulary. Fisher's historical research of both the time periods was very evident in her storytelling.

There were several things that kept me from giving it a 5. I thought the first half of the book although interesting moved rather slowly and could have used more action. Usually Fisher's books have a more prominent romance aspect. This book definitely had a lighter romance side although a strong historically developed plot. Once Phoebe and Captain Folger were on the ship, there seemed to be no connection between them, even from the beginning; and they had just been married.

The characters were quite varied. Captain Folger was a jerk from beginning to end, and I couldn't believe that Phoebe never did catch on to the fact he was probably after the journal and what it revealed. He also ran roughshod over his crew and let his first mate use his cat o' nine tails on the boys for insignificant breaches. And to leave Phoebe on an island and go off without her was inexcusable. Phoebe started out stubborn and self absorbed; and even though she was warned away from Captain Folger, she could only focus on being wealthy and secure. I did feel sorry for her continued sea sickness on the ship. I can't imagine being that sick for that long. As Phoebe began to rely more on God, she began to stand up for herself and take control of her life. I absolutely loved Silo and the relationship between Phoebe and he. Loved the role his scrimshaw carvings allowed him to speak to others.

Overall a good read and I look forward to the next book: Minding the Light.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it when a book sneaks past my expectations and shouts, "Surprise!" right in my face as soon as I open it. And this one sure did! Because Phoebe's Light wasn't anything like I thought it would be -- it's so much more!

Rich Nantucket history from two different centuries which includes whaling - a fascinating topic when you consider the world's view on whaling in the 21st century. There's an eyeopening look at conflicting religions - Puritan vs Quaker which totally caught me off guard. I did not know that!. So I came away with a new understanding of a number of topics - and be sure to read the author's note at the end of the book where Suzanne Woods Fisher separates fact from fiction.

And the biggest surprise of all -- this is a seafaring tale with treachery and mystery afoot -- all told in the brilliant storytelling style of one of my favourite authors. Yes, it's a departure from her usual Amish fiction but her trademark writer's voice is comfortingly familiar. And that includes laughter in unexpected places. Especially when it comes to Great Mary's journal entries. I mistakenly read this on the bus where my snorting and laughing guaranteed a seat all to myself for the entire journey.

Phoebe is exasperating and engaging and occasionally needs a good purse whomping. Sigh. But she's young and stubborn and there's no telling her anything. Sometimes a heroine just need to learn from her mistakes and she makes some doozies. But learn she does and matures in the process.

This is the first book in Fisher's Nantucket Legacy series and I'm thinking that Great Mary's journal entries will continue to provide inspiration to future generations as the series progresses. I feel an anticipatory swoon coming on as I contemplate all that reading goodness ahead of us.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Head back with me: Nantucket Island, 1767. Phoebe Starbuck has caught the eye of a dashing whaling boat captain, Phineas Foulger. She is taken by this older man's attention, and soon they are married and she is onboard the whaling ship. But life onboard isn't quite what Phoebe expected. Marriage isn't so great, either. And she worries about her father, a dreamer who is currently back home in debtor's prison.

She helps pass the time by reading the journal of her great grandmother, Mary Coffin. She has brought along the treasured journal, from 1660. The captain seems interested in it too -- hmmmm, why could that be?

I won't say a lot more because this book is full of surprises that you'll want to discover by reading it yourself. What will you learn in Phoebe's Light? Well, you'll discover a bit about the Quaker religion in 18th century America. You'll learn something of what it was like to sail on a whaling boat. I always enjoy a book that transports me to another time and place, and Phoebe's Light does just that.

A few language quibbles took me out of the story -- "drat" and "oh boy" spoken by 18th century characters, and "crazy in love" used by a 17th century one. However, as an author I know that these little things are bound to slip in. The writing reads smoothly and I did enjoy the story here. This is the first book in a series, with more to come, so if you enjoy it, you're in luck.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy historical fiction for its ability to transport me to another time and place; in her latest release, Suzanne Woods Fisher has done exactly that, to two different times in the same place. She takes us back to Nantucket’s beginnings in 1659, then a hundred years later, to the 1760s. Both timelines are riveting, and I love how the stories intertwine in more than just a family history kind of way.

I really enjoyed the history involved in this novel. I know very little about Nantucket, but the island setting appealed to me. As I read, however, I found I also knew almost nothing about the Quakers, nor about how they were persecuted by the Puritans, ironically having fled their own persecution in England. Another aspect of this story involves whaling history and the impact the profession had on both the families and the entire island.

The spiritual content is solid and I gained encouragement in my own walk as I read; the differences in worship style and the focus on humility really intrigued me, including a lack of gravestones to avoid pride. Even with the differences I noticed, we share far more in common, like our trust in God’s sovereignty and listening for His guidance rather than making rash decisions.

I couldn’t put this book down for very long—even when doing other things I pondered where the next twist would take the story. I look forward to learning more of Mary’s story in the next book, though Phoebe’s tale is resolved in this novel. This is a fantastic start to Fisher’s Nantucket Legacy series, and I highly recommend it for those with an interest in historical fiction, especially stories involving groups not frequently written about (like the Quakers), or those who like books involving the seafaring life.

I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

[Vera Godley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author ventures into the stories of the Quaker movement and from the Amish stories for which she is so well known and writing with such excellence. In Phoebe's Light we get a taste of what life was like in the 1660s and 1770s in the Massachusetts area and specifically on the island of Nantucket which lies offshore of Massachusetts.

While the Quakers had come to America's shores from Brittany to escape persecution and the freedom to seek faith as they believed, they soon found that persecution was in the newly formed colony as well.

Life revolved around the boats and what could be gleaned from the ocean leaving the islanders dependent on the shipping industry to provide their support. Whaling soon became their means of livelihood but such a dangerous occupation it was.

This story follows two interwoven timelines. Reading from a journal written by a Quaker woman in the 1660s, Phoebe as a descendent of this woman, comes to understand much of her own life.

The author's careful research and treatment of historical information is excellent. Characters are well fleshed out and you can really get into what they are thinking and feeling as you read. The descriptions of the sea voyages and life aboard a whaling ship captivate. I believe that Phoebe's light is that inner light that the Quakers believe is in man and comes from God. While our faith might differ from that which these Quakers believed, the book is good reading and a good story for Christians to read.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Revell, to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suzanne is a very talented author who know how to make her stories come alive and makes u feel like you are really there!!
I do enjoy Suzanne's stories!!
I also enjoyed learning about Nantucket and it's history as I do looooove history!!!
At first however; I didn't like how it wove to past and present because it confused me at first until I read through in how they fit together.
I loved Phoebe. I enjoyed her adventure although I thought that she was a little headstrong to begin with. I knew it wasn't funny but I had to laugh at her at times especially on the ship.
It didn't take me long to dislike Captain Phineous and his daughter.
But I guess everyone has their secrets.
I love this story because it just goes to show you that you can't keep secrets and lie about things. It certainly comes out in the was as they say. And it did!!! I just didn't like how it came out!!!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous! Although Suzanne Woods Fisher's Amish stories have been excellent, she's outdone herself with this, the first in her Nantucket Legacy trilogy. Her combination of lyrical prose and meticulous research brings the story of the early Quakers to life in a truly unforgettable book. Interspersing excerpts from a 17th century diary with the 18th century story adds even more depth to Phoebe's story, and surprising plot twists keep the reader engaged.

If you haven't already read it, this book should be on top of your TBR pile.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes when authors go in a different direction, you wonder if it's a good decision or not. I've always read and loved Suzanne's Amish fiction. I loved her Amish Beginnings series as well. This new series is going in a different direction, historical for sure, but not Amish. I opened the book both excitedly and nervous, because I didn't want to not like it. But shame on me for not having more faith in Ms. Fisher's writing abilities. I loved it. The characters, the setting, and grandmother's journal. I loved it all.
Phoebe was a fun character who had flaws, but I still found to be heroic. She was a tad naïve when it came to her "love" for Captain Foulgar, but I found that I could overlook that because of her other qualities. She was willing to do whatever it took to protect her family, to help her father. Even marry a man who may or may not love her. A man who has a spoiled daughter that thinks she can run the show. A man who mostly thinks of himself and nothing more. He was easily a character to dislike, and I cringed a lot whenever he entered the scene. But stories need a character like that. Keeps things interesting, keeps you turning the pages, and keeps the main characters on their toes!
My favorite part of the book however, was Mary's journals. As if one historical period wasn't enough, this book offers two! You cannot beat that! I learned a lot from Mary, however there are some questions I have for Mary that didn't get answered. I am hoping that we see more from her journals in the next installment. As the Godmother of Nantucket, she had a lot to offer. The more I read from her journals, the more I wanted. And it was interesting to see how all the grandparents to the characters in the present interacted with each other!
Overall, this was an awesome start to a new series. I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for the residents of Nantucket! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe’s Light is the fabulous beginning to Suzanne Woods Fisher’s newest series, Nantucket Legacy. I loved this story. I found it interesting to be transported back in time to this moment in history. I did not know that much about the Quakers and did not know about their time during Colonial Era of Nantucket Island. I was hooked and intrigued right from the start. I could not put the book down until I read to the end. I, also, was intrigued by the author’s note about this moment in history and how she came up with this story. She really knew how to use vivid details and descriptions to show what it was like back then.
I give Phoebe’s Light 5 plus stars and cannot wait for the second installment from Nantucket Legacy to release. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoy a great historical full of faith and inspiration.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Katrina Epperson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and look forward to the upcoming books in this series.
When the book arrived I was immediately captivated by the cover. I imagine this would be what Phoebe looked like standing on the shore of Nantucket watching for the Fortuna to arrive. The author provides a list of characters and descriptions, also a glossary with the language of 18th-Century Nantucket to help the reader. I read through both before starting the story.
This book is a story within a story. Let me explain. This book centers on Phoebe Starbuck and begins the day of her 18th birthday. Her father, Barnabas, gives her a weathered book bound in sheepskin which turns out to be a journal her great grandmother had written about her family being one of the first proprietors to settle on the island. It gives a rich backstory and adds a mystery to the book.
As the opening pages introduces us to Phoebe she appears as any girl would be on the morning of her birthday. She is full of anticipation, hopes and dreams of the future. She shows a great devotion and love for her father, but she knows he also has his shortcomings. Her interests of a romantic nature lean towards Phineas Fougler the whaling captain of Fotuna and also one of the most admired men on the island. This very day Phineas takes a special interest in Phoebe to her greatest delight. Phoebe has always taken care of her father, which has been a chore in and of itself, but she feels that now is the time to focus on her future. As Phineas increases his interest to Phoebe, to the shock of many, she suddenly finds herself preparing for a marriage and leaving the island behind to follow her husband on his ship. Suddenly Phoebe is facing problems she never imagined, from sickness to betrayal, and we see the girl grow into a woman of much courage and faith.
As I said, I loved this book. With the sweep of the hand Suzanne Woods Fisher weaved words together that evoked both laughter and tears. The story captures the time, place, values and beliefs. There are twists and turns when characters find things more complicated than they ever imagined which leads a hint of mystery. From the complex characters, romantic tension, crisis of faith and the consistent plot I was drawn in from the first page and didn't close the book until the end. This is a book I would recommend to anyone.
**I received this book from the publisher as part of their book bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe’s Light was a story that really surprised me. I was not expecting what I read, it seemed different than other books I have read by author Fisher, and that was a really nice surprise. Going into this book I assumed I would get a story like her previous series about the Amish coming to America only about Quakers. We do get more of an in depth look at what the Quakers believed and how they lived. Some of their customs that was portrayed in this book were new to me and so that was a bonus to learn something new.

Phoebe has just turned 18 and she has inherited her great-grandmother, Mary Coffin’s journal. So we are actually given two stories, two different timelines. Phoebe’s and Mary’s as we see the life and turmoil of the early Quakers and the happenings of Phoebe’s day. The journal part is written uniquely throughout the book. You will definitely know when it is time for Mary’s story.

I liked the thought of Phoebe getting some much needed wisdom from her ancestor. Her mother had passed on; her father was something of an absent minded inventor. Phoebe was a young woman who figured out what she thought she wanted, was true to her faith, and decided to go after what she thought was her dreams. Against the advice of family and friends she does end up in a situation that was less than desirable. Phoebe’s story does finish in this book; however Mary has a few more adventures hidden in her journal that I am most interested in reading.

This story was unique in where it went; we definitely meet some memorable characters. There is a small amount of romance in both timelines. This is much more of a story about true love and patience, waiting on God, and finding yourself. There is adventure and mystery that is also included and I had a hard time putting this one down.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book in what is sure to be a winning series, "Phoebe's Light" is an enjoyable journey back in time to the 18th century. Fisher uses vivid language to transport readers to the Island of Nantucket, and if you are anything like me you will practically taste the salty air coming in from the sea! I loved learning about the whaling era, as well as about Quakers and their beliefs, something I'm not very familiar with. I also quite liked how the author has woven the journal entries from Great Mary's journal into the story. Sometimes writing in such a manner can slow a plot down, but that was not the case here as some of the journal entries were downright tragic, others humorous, and others filled with mystery. Together, Great Mary's past and Phoebe's experiences melded into a compelling whole.

The story starts with a very naive and perhaps self-centred Phoebe, but her growth over the course of the novel is interesting to behold. Many of the other characters are equally compelling, and it is a refreshing change that this book doesn't follow the typical romantic storyline of a novel where boy meets girl and voila! Rather, Phoebe takes some wrong turns along the way to discovering love. The book is perhaps more edgy than Fisher's Amish novels, as the man Phoebe marries turns out to have a dark side indeed. Once that side emerges, Phoebe's life takes a turn for the worse. Good luck putting the book down after that. I certainly couldn't!

Fans of novels infusing history, romance, and even some suspense are going to greatly enjoy "Phoebe's Light" and be left looking forward to the next book in the series. I award this novel a solid rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe's Light is the first book in the Nantucket Legacy series by Suzanne Woods Fisher. This is an interesting book to read. The story is about Quakers, their customs and some of their struggles. This book focuses on Phoebe Starbuck. She has always taken care of her father and has now found out he has taken a loan out on their home for another one of his business adventures and cannot repay. They have just a few short weeks to move out.
Phoebe has had feeling for Captain Phineas Foulger for years. He has come home from a whaling expedition and is visiting her. They marry and Phoebe insists on going on his next trip. What she does not plan for is to have seasickness that does not go away. She spends her days in their room reading her great-grandmothers journal that tells of a treasure buried on the island. She also finds out he has another wife and family. When she gets really sick he drops her off on an island to get medical care. He also leaves his cooper, her long time friend, Matthew, to see to her care and burial. She gets better and along with Matthew, she returns to Nantucket to find out her husband was murdered on the ship and Matthew is the suspect.
I enjoyed reading this book. The book show us what it was like for the Quakers at that time. The story is so well written, it is easy to imagine the struggles they has as well as the early settlers on Nantucket Island. We see the love and caring Phoebe has towards her father, yet we see the immature young lady who will take life into her own hands to get what she wants, even when it is not the right thing. I think anyone who enjoys reading Christian historical romance will enjoy this story.
I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishing, this is my honest review.

[Renee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of Suzanne Woods Fisher's Amish love stories, so naturally I gravitated towards this new series which takes a bit of a different direction from the Pennsylvania Dutch romances. Phoebe's Light is set in 17th and 18th century Nantucket and centers around the whaling industry. I am quite fascinated by the danger and the peril that early whalers faced and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about it in Christian fiction. This series is the only one that I can think of off hand that is set during this time and in this location.

While labeled as a romance, I don't consider Phoebe's Light to be one. To be honest, the romantic aspects are lackluster. There is no chemistry at all between any of the characters involved in this book's main love triangle. I'm not even sure love triangle is the name to give what took place because it didn't even fizzle. If you're looking for strictly romance, look at any of Ms. Fisher's books other than this one.

That said, it does not mean I don't like the book! In fact, I love the windy shores of Nantucket and the vibrant imagery of storm-tossed ships and delicate scrimshaw that Fisher presents. From the excerpts of Phoebe's ancestor's diary to the sick room aboard ship, the details fairly burst from the page. It felt as though I were reading a true account of life in 18th century Nantucket. She certainly has a knack for history and early American life. Phoebe's Light is the first installment in the Nantucket Legacy series and the teaser in the back of this book for Minding the Light has me yearning for the rest of Daphne's story. P.S. Have you seen the cover for that book? It's just as stunning as this cover! 💓

~ My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars ~

*I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*

[Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think it is safe to say that Suzanne Woods Fisher is best known for her Amish fiction. With this new series, Nantucket Legacy, she is branching out to bring us insights into the beginnings of the Quakers in America.

My family is descended from those original Quakers so I found this to be especially fascinating. The Quakers came to America because of oppression only to find persecution again on the mainland of America. This part of the story shows how they settled on Nantucket Island to get away from that persecution. It also tells the story of how the settlers went from raising sheep to becoming whalers.

If you are worried about this being a mostly historical story, don't be. Suzanne brings her usual elements of romance, mystery, and suspense to the story. The romance between Phoebe and Matthew was wonderful but my favorite part was the love story between Phoebe and her father.

The underlying story line is an old journal from Great Mary. I thought that Suzanne did a wonderful job of flashing back and forth between the current time of 1767 to the past of 1658. Great Mary was known to have deep insight into situations and through her journal Phoebe gains wisdom. The journal contains secrets that will help the current generation and generations to come. Knowing that there is a secret hidden within the journal it becomes the object of desire to those who would use it for self gain rather than the good of all.

I just didn't want the story to end. I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment. Reading the sneak peek at the second book was torture! But I did enjoy all the extras that were included at the beginning and ending of the book. It was a win-win for me. I got to enjoy a delightful story and then learn some very interesting facts about our forefathers.

Treat yourself and pick up a copy today!

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.